New Material Can Regrow Damaged Cartilage in Joints

A new material may help regrow cartilage in damaged joints, according to an animal study conducted by Northwestern University researchers. The researchers said the material may someday be used to prevent total joint replacements, repair sports-related injuries, and treat degenerative diseases. Almost all joints in the body are cushioned by cartilage. Wear and tear to cartilage can cause lasting and costly injuries that are difficult to treat. With this in mind, the researchers set out to create a bioactive material. The biomaterial is essentially made up of two components: a bioactive peptide and a modified hyaluronic acid. The bioactive peptide binds to proteins essential for cartilage growth and maintenance. Hyaluronic acid is a natural sugar present in cartilage and the synovial fluid in joints. The research team chose modified hyaluronic acid because its structure is similar to that of the natural hyaluronic acid found within the body....